Students at Marrickville Public School have put forward their vision for a greener, more sustainable and playful outdoor area, winning NSW finalist for the My Park Rules competition.

The My Park Rules competition, organized by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects invites pre-schools, day care centres, primary and high schools to submit their ideas on how to brighten and re-energise outdoor spaces.

After 100 entries and 30,000 votes cast across the nation, Marrickville Public School’s entry was judged the best in NSW

They will now go up against a school from each state and territory in their bid to win $100,000 to build the outdoor space of their dreams.

As part of this they have been partnered with a team from TRACT to turn their vision into a design.

I look forward to joining the school, community and AILA as they mark this achievement on Monday.

The renewal of places in pockets of our cities is particularly important as Australia becomes increasingly urbanised.

Research shows that people who live in green cities are happier and healthier.

Every child in Australia should have access to well-designed green spaces, and the terrific benefits that flow as a result.

The overall winner for the My Park Rules initiative will be announced on 1 May 2016 and I’ll be cheering for Marrickville Public School.